Editors' Review

Before we worried about recovering deleted files, we just sent them to the Recycle Bin. Now there are a multitude of products designed to obliterate files, and File Monster is just another entry without any unique functions or features. However, its generic file browser interface actually helps the product fulfill its mission to quickly identify and eliminate files and folders.

File Monster makes it dead simple to kill a single file by double-clicking it. To remove a folder, simply select it and press delete. The app will even remove all subfolders and files. Multiple files are easily chosen for deletion using the common control and shift-click selection methods. Of course, no self respecting deletion tool simply eliminates files and folders without forcing users to answer the "Are you sure?" confirmation message. Still, a couple of clicks and files are permanently deleted.

File Monster overwrites the original file content, name, and creation date. All in the name of total file annihilation. The app doesn't explain the number of times a file is overwritten, or if it uses any particular method. The 30-day demo period should give any level user plenty of time to see if the program delivers, but this tool will appeal primarily to users who don't care about the specifics and only want to delete files with a minimum of fuss.

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Publisher's Description

File Monster completely erases files from your system - actually overwriting the information in the file so it can not be recovered. The reason information is still available when you delete files with normal deletion methods is because normal deletion methods only tell the operating system to not recognize the file as being present anymore, yet the information hasn't really been erased.

Occasionally you want to delete a file: I mean REALLY delete it. Not put it in a recycle bin or leave bits and bytes on the hard disk for some computer geek (errr, I mean nosy Tech) to recover. On such an occasion, File Monster is just the tool.

Cons

No downside unless you carelessly delete the wrong file or folder... cause there's no getting it back. Still, the program amply warns you with a big red confirmation box before just obliterating your files.

Summary

If you have occasion to permanently delete files, leaving no trace of their existence, File Monster is just the tool.

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